FDA and CDC are investigating a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to peaches, plums, and nectarines.
Samples from sick people were collected from August 22, 2018, to August 16, 2023. According to a case-case analysis conducted by CDC, people in this Listeria outbreak were 18 times more likely to eat peaches, plums, or nectarines. This suggests that these fruits are a likely source of this outbreak.
On October 23, 2023, FDA collected samples of 2lb bagged peaches at The HMC Group Cold Storage, Inc. in Kingsburg, Calif., and on November 7, 2023, the samples were reported positive and a match to the outbreak strain by whole genome sequencing.
In response to this investigation, HMC Farms has voluntarily recalled these fruits sold in retail stores from May 1, 2022 through November 15, 2022 and from May 1, 2023 through November 15, 2023. The recalled fruit was sold at retail stores as individual pieces of fruit bearing PLU stickers or in consumer packaging; however, the recalled fruit is no longer available for sale and any previously purchased fruit should be past shelf life.
FDA’s investigation is ongoing to determine the source of contamination and whether additional products are linked to illness. Food Quality & Safety will update this advisory as information becomes available.
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